Dublin Bus Employee Spotlight

Dorothy is originally from Poland and has lived in Ireland for over 20 years. Since 2 June 2020, she has been a bus driver at Dublin Bus, based at our Ringsend Depot, where she drives the nighttime service on the C1 and C2 Route.

What inspired you to work for Dublin Bus

Dorothy said, “I was a chef for 21 years before becoming a bus driver at Dublin Bus. I also have many Polish friends who are drivers for Dublin Bus and suggested l give it a try because it’s a great job with a lot of stability, security, and a pension. Their encouragement motivated me to become a driver. Along with this, l attended one the Female Recruitment Open Days – which was a great event where l had the opportunity to meet other female drivers”. ?

What is enjoyable about the job?

Dorothy explained, “I love driving – l find it very peaceful. On the bus, the driver’s cab is like my own little office! While I’m on duty, l concentrate on the road ahead and find it very calming.? I love being behind the wheel and enjoy every day on the road.”

Proudest achievement to date

Dorothy admits, “I’m extremely proud to have been involved in this year’s Dublin Bus Pride campaign as a spokesperson for the LGBTQI+ community. I participated in the media campaign and gave an interview on 98FM.

On another note, about a year and a half ago while driving from Adamstown to Sandymount at about 5am, as I approached Heuston Station, l spotted a young woman sitting on the edge of the bridge. I noticed a truck driver on the opposite side of the Liffey wave at me to alert that something was wrong.

As l approached the young woman, I slowed down, l knew something was wrong. I decided to pull over and parked the bus. Getting off the bus, I went over to her and pulled her off the side of the bridge, and very calmly reassured her, saying, you are now safe, don’t go anywhere, you will be ok.

At the time, there were approximately 10 customers on the bus, and one of them came out to assist. He kindly allowed me to use his mobile phone. I called the emergency services and explained the situation. They arrived a few minutes later and took control of the situation. Afterwards, I called Central Control and explained what l had done.? A few days later, Dublin Bus wrote to me to thank me for my kindness and duty of care, along with granting me a day off as a gesture of goodwill”.

Describe your team at Dublin Bus?

Dorothy explained, “My team at Ringsend Depot is lovely. Denise Guinan, the Depot Administrator, and Damien Campbell, the Area Operations Manager, are both very supportive and helpful. The inspectors are also fantastic”.

Interests

In my spare time, l enjoy keeping fit and go to the gym regularly. I also love reading. At the moment, I’m reading ‘Our Lives Out Load’ by Ann Louise Gilligan and Katherine Zappone, a fascinating story of love and campaigning for equality and social justice.

We’re hiring! Dublin Bus is now recruiting for the following roles:

• Mechanics,
• Engineering Operatives,
• Bus drivers.

For more information on all current vacancies, please visit - https://www.dublinbus.ie/Careers/